Comparison of microendoscopic discectomy system and anterior open approach in treatment of unstable odontoid fracture with cannulated screw internal fixation.

This study intended to investigate the safety and efficacy of microendoscopic discectomy system compared with anterior open approach in the treatment of odontoid fracture with cannulated screw internal fiation. Thirty-two patients (25 male and 7 female) were enrolled and randomly assigned to different treatments. 15 patients were treated with microendoscopic discectomy system (Group MED) and 17 patients were treated with anterior open approach (Group AOA). The operating time, volume of blood loss, occurrence of complications, and fracture healing rate were compared. In Group MED, the mean operating time and blood loss volume were significant lower than those in Group AOA (P < 0.05). Nevertheless, all patients in both groups obtained bony union and cervical range of motion without significant difference statistically (P > 0.05). Three patients in Group AOA complained of transient dysphagia. We concluded that microendoscopic discectomy system for odontoid fracture treatment with cannulated screw is a safe, reliable and minimal invasive procedure compared with traditional open surgery.